Liquid Layers

- 5th Grade -

The Challenge!

Use the density of liquids to layer samples within a straw as a visual example of their order.

Challenge Constraints

You must use all 4 water samples.
All 4 water samples colors must be visible in the straw as layers.
You must take notes as a form of data to use for your reasoning.

Student Skills In Focus

Learning Goals

Students will:

Students determine the relative concentration of four salt solutions through liquid layering.
Use the challenge to develop the Pillar Skills in focus.

Questions To Ask Students:

What do your observations tell you and why?
Plan Ahead- What are some strategies you could use to begin to determine the order.
Why is it important to use the tools carefully?
Why is "failing" important?

Essential Questions:

How do scientists and engineers use models to help them plan, create, and engage in the problem solving process?

NJ Student Learning Standards:

• 5-PS1-2. Measure and graph quantities to provide evidence that regardless of the type of change that occurs when heating, cooling, or mixing substances, the total weight of matter is conserved.

• 3-5-ETS1-3 Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.